WW Shells & Ground Beef

by

The WW pasta Shells & Ground Beef is a tasty dish. Prepare this dish in only 30 minutes. This recipe uses WW-friendly ingredients. All ingredients are light. Ingredients are simple as well. This WW pasta Shells & Ground Beef recipe keeps WW points and calories low. This dish is quick to make. It is also fulfilling. We use lean ground beef, pasta shells, and light tomato sauce. It tastes rich. Every bite gives satisfaction. You can make it for busy weekdays. Make it in advance for later use. Have it with family for gatherings or get-togethers. Include veggies of your own choice to make it healthier.

STATS:

  • Number of calories: 320 kcal
  • Prep duration: 10 minutes
  • Serving size: 1 cup
  • Cook duration: 20 minutes
  • Cuisine: American
  • Total time: 30 minutes
  • Course: Main
  • Diet: Weight Watchers
  • Serving: 4

EQUIPMENT:

  • Measuring spoons & cups
  • Strainer
  • Wooden spoon
  • Skillet (medium)
  • Large pot

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 medium chopped onion
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned)
  • 2 cups pasta shells (small & dry)
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 300 grams ground beef (lean)
  • One tablespoon of tomato paste
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • ½ cup reduced-fat shredded cheese (optional)

INGREDIENT NOTES:

PASTA SHELLS:

  • These make the dish fulfilling. We use small ones. The small shells keep the sauce in them. They can also cook quickly. When you cook them, they become soft. For an alternative, use elbow pasta.

LEAN GROUND BEEF:

  • This beef is 96% lean. It keeps WW points low. It reduces calories and fats. But its taste is still good. For an alternative, use ground turkey.

CRUSHED TOMATOES:

  • These tomatoes make a light sauce. The sauce is also smooth. We use crushed tomatoes for this recipe. They do not include many calories. They also give a good taste. For an alternative, use tomato puree.

BEEF BROTH:

  • We use beef broth with low sodium. This keeps salt control. This also includes a rich taste to the dish. Other options are vegetable or chicken broth.

REDUCED-FAT CHEESE:

  • This is optional. This keeps WW points low. It adds creaminess to the dish. For an alternative, use mozzarella (low-fat).

INSTRUCTIONS:

  • The first step is to cook the pasta shells.
  • Cook them according to package instructions.
  • Also, cook them in salt water.
  • After cooking, drain them.
  • Put them on a side.
  • Take the skillet.
  • Place it above a medium flame.
  • Cook lean ground beef in it.
  • Keep cooking till it turns brown.
  • Then include garlic and onion in it.
  • Cook till they become soft.
  • Add in pepper, salt, paprika, seasoning, tomato paste, broth, and tomatoes.
  • For 10 minutes, simmer the mixture.
  • Keep simmering to make it thick.
  • Include the pasta in the skillet.
  • Mix properly.
  • If you like to use cheese, then add it as well.
  • Enjoy your tasty & warm dish.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

  • To add fiber, have this dish with some salad.
  • Pair this dish with some steamed broccoli. This will provide volume to the dish.
  • Add parsley to give a fresh feeling to the dish.
  • Make a light soup and serve it along with the pasta.
  • Cut some fruits into a bowl, and serve the pasta with them.

TIPS:

  • If you want more fiber, use whole-wheat pasta.
  • Veggie options include zucchini or spinach. This will increase the nutrition in your meal.
  • Cook the beef properly to have its best taste.
  • When boiling the pasta, do not overcook it.
  • Omit the use of cheese if you prefer lower WW points.

STORAGE INFORMATION:

FRIDGE:

  • Store the pasta in a tight vessel for only 3 days.

FREEZER:

  • Use an airtight vessel to freeze this dish. Only freeze it for two months.

FAQs:

Does turkey work?

  • You can use lean turkey. It lowers the WW points as well.

How to prepare it with spices?

  • Include some cayenne or chili flakes in the dish.

How can I make this without dairy products?

  • Make use of dairy-free cheese. You can just exclude the use of cheese.

What veggies can I include in this dish?

  • Bell peppers, peas, and spinach are good options.

Can I prepare this dish beforehand?

  • Yes, you can store it. Then, heat it up before eating.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Iron: 2.1 grams

Total carbs: 38 g

Vitamin A: 520 IU

Calories: 320 kcal

Fiber: 5 grams

Net carbs: 33 g

Calcium: 90 mg

Protein: 27grams

Portion size: 1 cup

Sodium: 420 milligrams

Serving: 4

Potassium: 510 mg

Weight Watcher Points: 7 points